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About PIRSA
The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is a key economic development agency in the Government of South Australia.
We are responsible for maintaining the prosperity of the state's primary industries and regions.
South Australia's primary industries and agribusiness generated $18.5 billion of revenue in 2022–23, with direct employment and associated processing at 78,000 (full-time equivalent). These industries accounted for 51% of the state's merchandise exports.
Key topics
Major industries
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Aquaculture
We support the aquaculture industry and manage aquatic animal health with surveillance, education, and disease response. -
Commercial fishing
See the rules, licensing and registration, and fish size limits that apply to SA's commercial fisheries and processors. -
Food and beverage
Our food and beverage industries are vital to the state’s economy, with opportunities for local, national, and overseas growth. -
Forestry
We work with businesses and the community to develop world-leading initiatives for the forestry and wood products industries. -
Grains and crops
The sustainable grains industry in SA produces wheat, barley, canola, lentils, oats, peas, beans, lupins and chickpeas. -
Grape and wine
SA accounts for almost 80% of Australia’s premium wine production, with some of the oldest grapevines in the world. -
Horticulture
Our state is recognised for excellence in environmentally clean, safe, and advanced horticultural production. -
Livestock, wool and dairy
We deliver services, advice, research and development to increase the livestock industry's thriving trade and investment.
Latest news
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Heading back to school? Don’t forget fruit fly restrictions on home-grown produce
22 January
The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is reminding families with students returning to school across the Riverland next week to be aware of restrictions on home-grown fruit and vegetables.Read more about Heading back to school? Don’t forget fruit fly restrictions on home-grown produce -
Fishers caught red handed with illegal Snapper catch
21 January
Three fishermen have been fined almost $4,000 after a routine inspection on the Fleurieu Peninsularevealed they were in possession of 22 illegally caught Snapper.Read more about Fishers caught red handed with illegal Snapper catch -
A new era of climate-smart farming trials in SA established
15 January
A new era of climate-smart farming has arrived for South Australia in the form of long-term research trials. These trials will help livestock, cropping and mixed farmers prepare for and respond to future climate challenges, including dry times and dr…Read more about A new era of climate-smart farming trials in SA established -
Women paving the way for leadership in agriculture
7 January
The latest round of emerging leaders in agriculture and rural communities has been selected to participate in a professional development program aimed at supporting inspirational South Australian women to take the next step in their professional jour…Read more about Women paving the way for leadership in agriculture -
Keep cool while fighting Queensland fruit fly this summer
31 December
Fruit fly response activities in the Lindsay Point area will be ramped over the next few weeks following the recent declaration of the Lindsay Point B Queensland fruit fly outbreak.Read more about Keep cool while fighting Queensland fruit fly this summer -
New licence fee structure for Marine Scalefish Fishery
23 December
The State Government has listened to the feedback from South Australian Marine Scalefish Fishery (MSF) licence holders and revised the annual fee structure following extensive consultation.Read more about New licence fee structure for Marine Scalefish Fishery -
Footrot restrictions eased in South Australia
23 December
Restrictions around the management of footrot will be eased in South Australia from 1 January 2025 following extensive consultation with the state’s sheep industry.Read more about Footrot restrictions eased in South Australia -
Don’t let fruit fly hitch a ride with you this Christmas
23 December
As South Australia gears up for the festive season, the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is urging all travellers to leave restricted fruit and vegetables at home. Anyone caught with prohibited items could face a $417 fine.…Read more about Don’t let fruit fly hitch a ride with you this Christmas -
Support SA's tomato growers this Christmas
18 December
Consumers are being encouraged to make the most of locally-grown tomatoes this Christmas, with a bumper crop and some interstate restrictions having resulted in an oversupply in SA.Read more about Support SA's tomato growers this Christmas -
Check, Clean, Dry: Reduce the spread of abalone disease this summer
16 December
Fishers and divers in South Australia’s southeastern waters are being reminded to adopt good biosecurity practices during the summer holidays to reduce the spread of Abalone Viral Ganglioneuritis (AVG).Read more about Check, Clean, Dry: Reduce the spread of abalone disease this summer
